Human Papillomavirus (HPV) is a widespread virus, and certain types can lead to cancers such as cervical, anal, and oropharyngeal cancers, as well as genital warts. Vaccination represents a significant advancement in public health, offering a primary method to prevent these HPV-related diseases.
Key HPV Vaccine Manufacturers
Merck & Co., Inc., a pharmaceutical company based in New Jersey, is a major participant in the global HPV vaccine market, widely distributing its products. GlaxoSmithKline (GSK) plc also holds a significant position, known for its bivalent vaccine.
Other companies are active in specific regions. Shanghai Zerun Biotech Co., Ltd. and Xiamen Innovax Biotech Co., Ltd. are notable within the Asia-Pacific market, with Innovax’s vaccine having undergone review for WHO prequalification. Walvax Biotechnology Co., Ltd. is an innovator with its bivalent vaccine, Walrinvax™, achieving WHO prequalification in August 2024. The Serum Institute of India Pvt. Ltd. developed Cervavac, the first HPV vaccine in India, aiming to increase access to vaccination at reduced prices.
Types of HPV Vaccines and Their Features
The primary HPV vaccine available globally is Gardasil 9, manufactured by Merck & Co., Inc. This 9-valent formulation targets nine different HPV types: 6, 11, 16, 18, 31, 33, 45, 52, and 58. Gardasil 9 is indicated for individuals aged 9 to 45 years to prevent various cancers, including cervical, vaginal, vulvar, anal, and certain head and neck cancers caused by specific HPV types, as well as genital warts caused by types 6 and 11.
Historically, other HPV vaccines were available, such as Cervarix, manufactured by GlaxoSmithKline. Cervarix is a bivalent vaccine designed to protect against HPV types 16 and 18. These two types are responsible for approximately 70% of cervical cancer cases.
While primarily targeting types 16 and 18, Cervarix has also demonstrated some cross-protective efficacy against other high-risk HPV types, such as 31 and 45. Cervarix was voluntarily withdrawn from the U.S. market in 2016 due to low demand. An earlier version of Gardasil, a quadrivalent vaccine, protected against HPV types 6, 11, 16, and 18.
Understanding Vaccine Safety and Efficacy
HPV vaccines have undergone rigorous testing and approval processes, demonstrating a strong safety profile. Common side effects are generally mild and temporary, often including soreness, swelling, or redness at the injection site. Other reported mild side effects can include headache, fatigue, muscle or joint pain, dizziness, fever, and nausea.
Serious allergic reactions following HPV vaccination are very rare, occurring at a reported rate of about 3 cases per 1 million doses administered in the United States. These vaccines are highly effective in preventing HPV infections and the diseases they cause. Since their introduction, there has been a substantial reduction in HPV infections and related conditions among vaccinated populations. Protection provided by HPV vaccination can last for over 10 years, with no evidence of diminishing effectiveness.